Old Influences

By Quinn Kelly

The Greeks and the Etruscans were two cultures who had impressive impacts on ancient Rome that included engineering and architecture, arts, and sporting events. The main influence of the Greeks in architecture was the temples. Large marble temples with columns that offered support were beautifly crafted to enhance the idea of the temples' divinity. The Romans used the same technique in the public buildings but using concrete instead of marble. Greek influence on Roman architecture is shown by the similar designs that were used. This helped Rome because it gave them a stable and appealing design to work with.

The Etruscans were skilled in engineering. The arch and the cuniculus were two significant structures the Romans adapted from the etruscans. The cuniculus is a structure built underground to irrigate the land. Meanwhile, the arch had an arrangement of two pillars and a multitude of curved stones that were stacked in a half circle formation. Arches proved to be structurally sound. The Romans used the arch as entrances and to support their aqueducts. a critical influence  for a developing Rome in ways such as supplying favorable builds, and paving the way for Romans to become even better engineers then the Etruscans were.

Art was common in both Greek and Roman households. Romans commissioned art in the styles of Greeks and developed their own styles that related to the designs of the Greeks. Having a form of art at the development of Rome helped by adding another form of economy for people to take part in and give a sense of beauty for the city to. 

Finally the bloody sporting events of the Etruscans. The first of which was slave fighting. It was custom in etruscan culture to host a slave fight at funerals. Two of the master's slaves fought to the death and the victor was later executed. The Romans adapted this in the form of gladiator fighting. A sport in which slaves fight each other to the death for public enjoyment. A gruesome but effective form of entertainment. The influences of this are much like the influences of football. It gives people something to enjoy and to celebrate.

In conclusion, the Greeks and Etruscans laid a heavy influence on the great republic that was the Roman Empire.